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Published on: June 23, 2023
A Grounded Theory Approach to Understanding Men Confronting Infertility
Mehrdad Abdullahzadeh1, Zohreh Vanaki1, Eesa Mohammadi1
1Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Men experiencing infertility often hide their struggles due to masculinity concerns, a phenomenon termed "forced concealment." This strategy impacts emotional expression and treatment disclosure in couples facing male infertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Men's Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Infertility significantly impacts men's psychological well-being and relationships.
- Societal pressures on masculinity can exacerbate the challenges men face with infertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of men confronting infertility.
- To develop a grounded theory explaining men's coping mechanisms and concerns related to infertility.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Straussian grounded theory approach with 16 male participants from a fertility center in Isfahan, Iran.
- Conducted semi-structured interviews and employed constant comparative analysis.
- Identified core categories and developed a substantive theory of men's infertility experience.
Main Results:
- The core category identified was 'forced concealment,' involving emotional suppression and secrecy.
- Men attributed infertility to wives to protect their masculinity.
- Influencing factors included partners, family, society, care providers, and beliefs.
Conclusions:
- The 'forced concealment' theory provides insight into men's responses to infertility.
- Culturally sensitive strategies are needed to support couples with male infertility.
- Integrating nursing competencies is crucial for addressing men's infertility challenges.
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